A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Colorado Springs for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a active, energetic, and fun-filled city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a welcoming, friendly, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Colorado Springs travel costs.

Ocean City and Colorado Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pikes Peak


Is there more to do in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ocean City than Colorado Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ocean City is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Colorado Springs is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ocean City is more touristy than Colorado Springs and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Also, Ocean City is famous for the Ocean City boardwalk. Colorado Springs is well known for its many outdoor recreation areas, world-class parks, striking red sandstone formations, and beautiful mountain views.

How is Ocean City different from Colorado Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Colorado Springs and Ocean City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Skiing?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a moderate mountain town for snow skiing. However, Ocean City is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Colorado Springs for snow skiing. The town isn't as accessible to skiing as Denver is, but there are still options, like Breckenridge, within a few hours drive.

Ocean City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Colorado Springs. Most people visit this area for the outdoor recreation, not the museums, but in town you'll find the Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum, the Peterson Air and Space Museum, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry, and the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. The U.S. Olympic Complex Training Center is also a unique place to visit and well worth some time.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Colorado Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Foodies will find both Ocean City and Colorado Springs both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ocean City area. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Colorado Springs. There's a combination of local restaurants that serve local items such as trout and bison, as well as your standard chain restaurants and more predictable American classics like burgers, pizza, and chicken fingers.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Ocean City know how to have a good time. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

If you're looking for night time activities Colorado Springs has a few options to choose from. The town has a number of breweries and a great craft beer selection. There are local bars along Tejon Street, or head through Downtown Colorado Springs for some of the most active nightlife.


Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Resorts?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a great destination for its resorts. However, Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Colorado Springs is not a resort destination.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Beaches?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a great destination for its beaches. However, Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Colorado Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Hiking?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Colorado Springs specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are both world-famous hiking areas, as well as lesser known hikes that the locals often prefer. Some of the more famous places include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. For families, check out Seven Bridges Trail or Mount Muscoco Trail. Loud's Cabin is a longer trail that also includes Seven Bridges Trail.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a city with a few options for shopping. However, Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Colorado Springs is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs More Beautiful?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Colorado Springs attracts visitors from all around. The town is surrounded by tons of natural beauty. In the area you'll find the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.

Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Families?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ocean City is one of the most popular family destinations. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Colorado Springs is very family-friendly. The town is conveniently located near many outdoor adventures that are family-friendly. There are many parks, hiking trails, and wildlife centers in the area that make for a fun outing. Popular activities include the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Dinosaur Resource Center, and Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.


Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Couples?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a great destination for romance. Also, Colorado Springs is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Ocean City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Colorado Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking and exploring nature together will love visiting this town and the areas nearby. There are many hiking trails in easy reach of the town. Hot air balloon rides are also popular and offer an amazing view over the beautiful landscape.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Colorado Springs. Just outside of town you'll find campgrounds with all of the amenities that you might need. In town, there's also a hostel and several affordable accommodation options.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Students?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a popular place for students. However, Ocean City is not popular with students.

Colorado Springs is a good mountain town to visit for students. It's a relatively affordable town with easy access to plenty of free activities like hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Ocean City is not popular with students.


Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Colorado Springs is a mountain town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Colorado Springs. While there are buses, many people come to the area to visit Pikes Peak or several of the other nearby parks, all of which require a car.

Is Ocean City or Colorado Springs a more walkable city?

Ocean City
Colorado Springs

Ocean City and Colorado Springs both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Ocean City is generally not very walkable. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

Colorado Springs is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is walkable, you'll really want to have a car so you can explore the areas outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Colorado Springs or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ocean City and Colorado Springs. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ocean City than in Colorado Springs. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Colorado Springs.

Families should spend more time in Ocean City than Colorado Springs. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ocean City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Ocean City than Colorado Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ocean City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Colorado Springs than Ocean City if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Colorado Springs.


  • How many days in Ocean City or Colorado Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ocean City 3-7 
    Colorado Springs 2-3

One day in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

You'll find food and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Ocean City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy mountain town of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

You'll find nightlife and food around the active city of Ocean City. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Colorado Springs, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town.

Five days in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Ocean City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Colorado Springs, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Ocean City is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Colorado Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Colorado Springs or Ocean City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Ocean City Prices
    USA Prices
    Colorado Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ocean City $196
    Colorado Springs $205

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocean City is $196, while the average daily cost in Colorado Springs is $205. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ocean City and Colorado Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocean City $83
    Colorado Springs $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocean City $166
    Colorado Springs $162
Compare Hotels in Ocean City and Colorado Springs

Looking for a hotel in Ocean City or Colorado Springs? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ocean City


Hotels in Colorado Springs


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ocean City Hotel Prices and Colorado Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocean City $47
    Colorado Springs $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Colorado Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Colorado Springs:

  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Prices for flights to both Colorado Springs and Ocean City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ocean City $85
    Colorado Springs $95

Typical Food Prices in Colorado Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Colorado Springs:


  • Cold Stone Ice Cream (family of 4)
    $22
  • Snacks at the Zoo (family of 4)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Colorado Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Colorado Springs.

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery - Colorado Springs, CO: $89
  • Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocean City $18
    Colorado Springs $40

Tours and Activities in Colorado Springs

Here are a few actual costs in Colorado Springs for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods : $17
  • Scenic Pikes Peak Highway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Mesa Verde National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Black Canyon of the Gunnison: $20
  • Colorado Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $28
  • Guided Ghost Story and History Tour: $28
  • Manitou Springs - Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour: $30
  • Pueblo Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Colorado Springs Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Red Rocks Amphitheatre Historical Walking Tour: $39
  • Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings Tour: $45
  • E-Golf Cart Tour in Manitou Springs: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocean City $14
    Colorado Springs $24


When comparing the travel costs between Ocean City and Colorado Springs, we can see that Colorado Springs is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ocean City Expensive? and Is Colorado Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Colorado Springs, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Colorado Springs. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Colorado Springs for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ocean City is a little warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ocean City in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ocean City 77°F (25°C) 
    Colorado Springs 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Colorado Springs. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Colorado Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ocean City is generally much warmer than Colorado Springs. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 58°F (14°C), and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in October than Colorado Springs. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ocean City 58°F (14°C) 
    Colorado Springs 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs in the Winter?

Both Colorado Springs and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Colorado Springs for the skiing, the museums, and the cuisine during these months.

Colorado Springs can be very cold during winter. Ocean City can get quite cold in the winter. Ocean City is much warmer than Colorado Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 35°F (2°C) in January, and Colorado Springs fluctuates around 26°F (-3°C).

In January, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Colorado Springs. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 0.3 inches (8 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ocean City 35°F (2°C) 
    Colorado Springs 26°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Ocean City or Colorado Springs in the Spring?

Both Colorado Springs and Ocean City during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Colorado Springs because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ocean City is much warmer than Colorado Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ocean City in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Colorado Springs averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in April than Colorado Springs. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Colorado Springs receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ocean City 54°F (12°C) 
    Colorado Springs 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Colorado Springs and Ocean City

Ocean City Colorado Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (2°C) 3.6 inches (93 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 35°F (2°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 45°F (7°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 69°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 58°F (14°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 48°F (9°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.3 inches (8 mm)